This "Song For" You
Michael B. Richman | Portland, Maine USA | 11/12/2000
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Joseph Jarman's "Song For" is an early effort from the AACM movement of Chicago, or for that matter from the Art Ensemble of Chicago. While Jarman is the only Art Ensemble member featured here, the musical style of this disc, particularly the horn textures and the multi-layered, African-flavored percussive rhythms, would become the signature sound of that great group. While the Amazon editorial review designates this as an essential recording, I personally wouldn't quite go that far. (I instead would give that distinction to Roscoe Mitchell's "Sound.") However, this is an enjoyable session, with the exception of the track "Non-Cognitive Aspects of the City" -- the music is hauntingly poignant but the spoken-word "neo-dada" text is a bit dated. What I do like about this session is compared to most avant-garde jazz albums of the day it doesn't squawk and screech its head off. Instead it derives its exploratory feel from Barker and McCall's pervasive, polyrhythmic drumming (and Christopher Gaddy's earthy, subtle percussion), while the frontline of Jarman, Anderson and Bill Brimfield (on trumpet) play tight and structured, albeit creative and inventive, arrangements that for me are reminiscent of Booker Little's final recordings. In all, fans of AACM or AEOC will enjoy this disc greatly."
Powerful and Moving
Michael B. Richman | 06/06/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is simply a great, great album. Every musician contributes to a sound that is just immense and beautiful. Joseph Jarman on alto, Bill Brimfield on trumpet, Fred Anderson on tenor, Christopher Gaddy on piano and marimba, Charles Clark on bass, Thurman Barker on drums, and Steve McCall also on drums for three of the songs. Christopher would pass away only a year or so after this was recorded, but thankfully a document of his atmospheric/melodic flights are perserved on this for us to hear. These musicians are really 'listening' and you can tell. I put this on and find myself saying over and over, "This is just fantastic!" Also check out Jarman/Moye/Dyani's Black Paladins (Black Saint), and Fred Anderson's Milwaukee Tapes (Atavistic) with Billy Brimfield, Hamid Drake, and Larry Hayrod."
Searching sounds
Ad Arma | Holland | 07/13/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Music that is searching and finding an atmosphere of pure abstract brillance. Free Jazz in a poetic mood. It all moves so very natural. This music is a document that will stand like a wondering monument. Beautyfull and powerfull forever. Listen and listen again. You will find yourself back smiling every time!"
Track Listings (5) - Disc #1
